Mt. San Antonio or better known as Mt. Baldy is the "crown jewel" of the San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California. Although it is not the highest mountain in Southern California it is the highest in the San Gabriel Mt. Range. Mt. Baldy is visible from much of Southern California and much of Southern California can be seen from it's summit on a clear day. It is one of the most photographed objects of the Southern California landscape.

The route we will be taking is a loop. We will hike to the summit on the The San Antonio Ski Hut/Baldy Bowl Trail. It is considered the most direct route to the summit of Mount Baldy (10,064'). The distance estimates range from 4.25 to 4.5 miles one way with approximately 3900 feet of elevation gain. This climb is considered very strenuous. Our descent will be on the Devils back bone trail and will end at the Mt Baldy Ski area or Baldy Notch. From the Summit to Baldy Notch it is appx 3.5 miles with 2400 feet of elevation loss. At the Notch there is a restaurant were you can purchase lunch/snacks/drinks etc. Also you can pay $10 and ride the ski lift back to the parking lot and save an additional 2 mile hike and 1500 feet of elevation loss. I always help the local economy and pay the $10 bucks!!

The hike should take approximately 7 hours and is a great work out. For clothing/footwear/gear I would recommend wearing very comfortable light hiking boots. If you do not have any, keep in mind it is pretty mild terrain and can be done in running shoes. I suggest wearing light cargo pants/shorts and a wicking/ workout type shirt. I would also recommend taking a beanie, light gloves and a jacket. It can be windy on top so you need to be able to put on a layer or two. Bring a small backpack to hold snacks, hat, personnel items, camera, sunscreen, sun glasses and a minimum of 2-3 liters of water. Also if you have hiking or trekking poles bring them as well. I will bring a first aid kit.

We have had a nice stretch of mild weather which is perfect for hiking. If we do have a storm roll in we will need to cancel the hike. Let me know if you have any questions.